The NSPCC's latest campaign has shown that the physical punishment of children is not 'common sense'.

In fact, not only is hitting children ineffective and a lesson in bad behaviour, most parents, like the NSPCC, agree that it is simply wrong.

The Government can no longer ignore this challenge, hiding behind the very weak 'nanny state' argument.

This is an issue for society as a whole, not just the family, and the Government must take a lead to change parental attitudes.

We must support parents and protect children.

This means much more public education, greater support for families under pressure and law reform to make it clear that hitting children is unacceptable in modern society.

In all of this, the Government must take a lead to change parental attitudes.

MRS TESSA COLSON,

Pickwick Road,

Corsham.